Jacques exudes confidence ahead of India tour

Sydney, Sep 20 (UNI) Australian opener Phil Jacques has exuded confidence ahead of the four-match Test series against India starting next month and said he was all geared up to take the challenge.

Jacques, who recently returned from a holiday in New York with his family, said the break has recharged his batteries to have a go at the Indians.

''I was keen to blow out the cobwebs out and get some match practice, which is what I've been able to do. My wife and I went to New York after the West Indies tour, which was great. It's a city that never stops,'' Jacques was quoted as saying by 'The Daily Telegraph'.

''And I've been able to enjoy my time at home the past few months, which I haven't been able to do the past few years. I feel like the batteries have really been recharged,'' he said.

Jacques had a quick practice match yesterday at Albion Park in the State Cup for his side New South Wales and though he managed only 19 runs, he said it was important for him to get back to the crease.

''I wanted this match practice before I went away. There was pretty good opposition there today. There were some state players bowling to me so I was happy for the hit out,'' he said after the match.

The opener, who has played 11 Tests, will make his first trip to India and asserted that he was aware of the challenges that await him.

''I've been to Bangladesh and Pakistan, but I've never been to India so I'm really looking forward to it. I've spoken to a few of the players who have been over there and they've all told me it's a really good place to bat, especially if you're at the top of the order.

''There will be a lot of spin, but I won't mind because I played at Northamptonshire, which is conducive to spin, and growing up in Sydney and playing at the SCG will also help.

It's going to be tough. The Indians know their own conditions well,'' said Jacques, who made his debut in 2005.